The South African government has once again given relief news for the economically weaker section of the country. The payment dates of the SASSA R350 Grant for April 2025 have been officially announced. This social assistance amount is for those who are unemployed and are not getting any kind of income or government help. In this article, we will tell you what this grant is, who is eligible for it, how to apply, how to receive payment and how to check your status.
What is the SASSA R350 Grant?
This Social Relief of Distress (SRD) scheme run by SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) was first launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its purpose was to provide temporary financial assistance to those citizens who had lost their income or who were deprived of any kind of assistance due to unemployment.
Under this grant, an amount of R350 is given directly to the eligible citizens every month. Since the scheme was launched, more than 11 million South African citizens have benefited from it. Now payments for April 2025 will be made between April 26 and April 28.
Who can apply for this grant?
This grant is given only to those who are eligible for it. Some special criteria have been set for this:
- The applicant must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, refugee or refugee with a valid permit.
- The age should be between 18 and 59 years.
- The applicant should be unemployed and not receiving any other type of financial assistance, such as
- Any income,
- NSFAS scholarship,
- UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund),
- Any other social grant or assistance.
If you are over 60 years of age, you can apply for the Older Person’s Grant. And if you are disabled, you may be eligible for the Disability Grant.
How to apply?
If you are applying for the first time, it is important to know that the application process is simple and also available online.
1. Online application (recommended method)
Go to the website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Enter your ID number and registered mobile number.
- Click on “Send SMS” and enter the received OTP.
- Complete the form by filling in personal and bank details.
2. Apply via WhatsApp
- Save the number 082 046 8553.
- Send the message by typing “SRD” and following the further instructions.
3. GovChat and Facebook
- Go to GovChat.org or
- Apply via SASSA’s Facebook Messenger bot.
4. In-person application (in special cases)
- Go to the nearest SASSA office.
- Take your ID with you and ask for help.
How to check the status of your application?
After applying, you can check your SRD status by:
- Go to the website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status
- Enter your ID number and mobile number.
- Click “Submit”.
You may see one of the following statuses:
- Approved – you will receive payment.
- Pending – the application is under review.
- Declined – the application has been rejected.
Application rejected? What to do?
If your application is rejected, don’t worry. You can appeal within 30 days:
- Go to the SASSA Appeals Portal
- Enter your ID number and mobile number
- Submit the appeal for that month and reason.
Tip: When appealing, make sure all information is correct and accurate. Incorrect information or information about another source of income may result in the application being rejected.
How and where to get payment?
You must choose your payment method carefully to receive the amount safely and on time:
1. Bank Transfer (best option)
- The amount will be sent directly to your bank account.
- Make sure the bank details match your ID.
2. Cash Send option (without bank account)
- An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number.
- You can use this OTP to withdraw cash from any participating ATM.
3. Payment at retail stores
You can collect your grant at the following stores:
- ShopRite
- Checkers
- Boxer
- Pick n Pay
- USave
Carry your ID and registered mobile number.
4. Payment through Post Office
- This option is being phased out.
- Confirm availability at the nearest post office.
Tips to avoid payment delays
- Make sure your ID number and mobile number are correct.
- Keep your banking details updated and have an account in your name.
- Do not use another person’s bank account.
- Check the status every week around the payment dates.
Final Thoughts
The SASSA R350 Grant is not just a sum of money but also a ray of hope for millions of South Africans. This installment due in April 2025 will once again provide some relief to those in need. If you are eligible, do not delay applying, update your information from time to time, and contact the SASSA helpline (0800 60 10 11) if you need assistance.
FAQs
Q. When will the April 2025 SASSA R350 payments be made?
A. Payments will be processed between 26 April 2025 and 28 April 2025.
Q. Who is eligible for the SASSA R350 Grant?
A. South African citizens, permanent residents, refugees, or asylum seekers aged 18–59 who are unemployed and receive no other income or support.
Q. How can I apply for the R350 grant?
A. You can apply online at https://srd.sassa.gov.za, via WhatsApp (082 046 8553), GovChat, or at a SASSA office in special cases.
Q. How do I check my application status?
A. Visit the SASSA SRD Status Check page, enter your ID and mobile number, and click Submit to view your application result.
Q. What should I do if my application is declined?
A. You can submit an appeal within 30 days on the SASSA Appeals Portal with the required details and reason for the appeal.